Darren Sproles Trade: New Orleans Sends Versatile Back to Philadelphia

Darren Sproles Trade: In the days leading up to free agency it became clear the New Orleans Saints and running back Darren Sproles were going to part ways. The only question was just how it was going to happen.

@SportingNews/Twitter

Initially it seemed like the Saints were going to release Sproles so that he would be able to test the market on his own and choose where he plays next. As the opening of free agency neared the tune changed coming out of the Big Easy–they wanted to trade him instead. According to reports that has now happened.

He’s going to be moving from the Big East to the City of Brotherly Love to play for Chip Kelly and the Philadelphia Eagles.

The trade is a win-win for the teams as well as Sproles. New Orleans was going to release him outright, but instead were able to add an extra fifth round pick. Chip Kelly gets a player that is tailor made for his style of offense and will now be able to take some of the pressure off of LeSean McCoy.

As unhappy as Sproles may be for not having a say in his future the Eagles are the perfect landing spot for him. Kelly likes to run the kind of wide open attack that gives smaller backs like Sproles the chance to make a play in open space. Sproles is going to be 31 before next season begins; the age where running backs start to decline.

Becoming a role player in Chip Kelly’s offense could keep him relevant and employed for a few more seasons.